Courtesy of RevolveYou never know what to expect from new-season trends, unless you pay attention to runways the season prior.
This year, fall's outerwear trends have leaned toward popular "shacket" (shirt-jacket hybrids) options, barn coats and cropped trench coats, aka versatile layers for the testy forecasts that come with transitional weather.
But one outerwear style was inescapable during New York Fashion Week: military-inspired jackets are coming with us into the new season.
- Best military jacket for work: Nautica Open-Front Captain's Jacket
- Denim military jacket: BDG Quinn Denim Band Jacket
- Best overall pick: Mango Buttoned Jacket
"Post-NYFW, utility style is everywhere. Designers leaned into structured silhouettes, cargo pockets, and military-inspired outerwear," says celebrity stylist Samantha Brown exclusively to E!
Themes of utility, regency, and workwear were strong runway trends, while functional gorp-core style was seen on the NYC streets in the form of structured silhouettes, cargo pockets, officer-style buttons, and shades of brown, olive and navy hues in abundance.
Although we saw a plethora of army-style coats with regal details at fashion week—think epaulettes, ornate buttons and frogging or braided details—styling a military jacket requires a careful balance to make it feel more chic than cosplay. And Brown shares how to do exactly that.
"On the streets, people are pairing these tougher pieces with sleek foundations underneath so the look feels intentional rather than bulky. Shaping pieces work especially well under oversized utility jackets."
These battle-inspired details feel elevated and polished enough for the office without looking like you're headed to war—unless your job calls for that, in which case, you'll look prepared.
Furthermore, trend forecasting supports this theory with examples from fall 2026 runways, including gold braiding and frogging seen in Khaite's Fall 2026 collection. For Spring 2026, designer Ann Demeulemeester also featured epaulette detailing.
Below, Brown breaks down exactly how to wear the military jacket trend for fall 2026, along with affordable options from our favorite crowd-loved brands.
How To Style Military Jackets for Fall According to a Celebrity Stylist
"Designers showed a more polished take on utility with tailored cargo trousers, structured jackets, and monochromatic sets," Brown says.
"Everyday wearers are balancing the proportions with fitted layers underneath, often reaching for smoothing dresses or slim pants to create a clean, streamlined shape. For beginners, pair a legging with a longer military jacket and sling back kitten heels or knee-high riding boots."
Brown suggests "twill, canvas, waxed cotton, and crisp cotton blends" for the coats and advises to go for neutral colors for easy mix-and-matching: "Stick with olive, tan, charcoal, black, or deep navy for the most verstaile and elevated results."
Look 1: Styling a Military Jacket for Work
Nautica Open-Front Captain's Jacket
This Nautica pick is more of a military-blazer hybrid that feels professional and poised enough for the office. The stylist likes these neutral shades, saying tan, black, or deep navy produce "the most versatile and elevated results."
Always Easygoing Black Sleeveless Bodysuit
A fitted basic is key when styling your utility look, Brown says. This sleek, simple sleeveless bodysuit is a staple that'll pair so well with your fave military mini skirt, cargo pants, or jacket.
Lulus Suits You Perfectly Linen Wide-Leg Pants
Make the military trend work for the boardroom with a sophisticated slack. The stylist advises it's surprisingly wearable for work, turn it into a coordinating set with a suiting pant in a matching shade, or another neutral tone to mix-and-match in your closet with.
Stylist tip: "A simple but reliable way to nail the trend is a military jacket layered over a fitted top with straight-leg pants. You want a sleek base layer that doesn’t add bulk," Brown explains.
Look 2: Style a Military Blazer Casually with Jeans
Levi's Ribcage White Denim Straight Ankle Jeans
Brown recommends a pair of straight leg pants for easy styling. This classic pair of Levi's jeans feels utilitarian yet elevated for the perfect contrast.
Stylist tip: "To keep the trend feeling relaxed, choose one standout utility piece and keep the rest simple," says Brown. Reach for denim in a classic straight-leg cut with a wash that feels fashion-forward, like white jeans or a vintage finish.
Look 3: Styling Military Jackets with Leggings
BDG Cate Cotton Band Jacket
A 100% cotton jacket with all the military details—epaulets, buttoned cuffs, flap pockets, hook-and-eye closures, and a curved hem—all in a casual, lightweight layer. Toss it on with your favorite straight-leg trousers or jeans for an easy fall look.
Keep it Sleek Black Vegan Leather Leggings
Brown recommends styling your military jacket with a pair of leggings. She says it's great for everyday: "A lightweight utility jacket layered over denim or leggings keeps the look easy and practical." This faux leather pair is an unexpected alternative to basic leggings.
Stylist tip: "You can tap into utility without relying on a classic military jacket. For beginners, pair a legging with a longer military jacket and sling back kitten heels or knee-high riding boots."
Look 4: How To Make Military Jackets Feel Dressy
Lulus Adorably Flirty Black Button-Front Sweater Mini Dress
Between the long sleeves, buttoned front and flattering fit, this just may be the ultimate knit mini dress for autumn, and it's under $50! Use code 1000DRESSES for added discount.
Stylist tip: "Pairing a military jacket with a knit dress gives the look structure," says Brown. Ideal for fall festivities and holiday gatherings, a comfortable sweater dress is an easy and versatile choice. "Details like gold buttons and braided materials give a nod to military style and can feel more nuanced," says Brown.
Look 5: Styling the Military Jacket Trend with a Utility Skirt
BDG Quinn Denim Band Jacket
Trade in a traditional trucker denim jacket for something way more high-fashion: a denim military silhouette instantly elevates a jean jacket with a utilitarian twist that's perfect for fall trends, thanks to its collar-less neckline and front plaque of gold metal buttons.
Lauren Ralph Lauren Women's Zip & Fly Chino Cargo Pencil Skirt
Pencil skirts are an easy way to elevate a look and this designer pick is over half-off right now. The stylist likes complimenting army coats with cargo pockets to play up the utility aesthetic, now 58% off.
Stylist tip: "You can tap into utility without relying on a classic military jacket," says the stylist. "Utility skirts, structured vests, and tailored dresses all capture the vibe. Cargo skirts, especially midi lengths, are another refined way to embrace the trend."
Look 6: Military Jackets with Cargo Pants
Mango Buttoned Jacket
Made of a cotton-blend that feels like structured denim fabric, this piece has the straight-fit cut you're looking for. It features a hook-and-eye front decorated with accent buttons and a crew neckline.
Stylist tip: "Layering is essential to utility style," she says. "A utility (pant) over a fitted long-sleeve top adds dimension," Brown says.
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